Here are comparative takes from the mainstream media, and an alternative blog on the significance of India banning export of non-basmati rice (basmati rice is long-grain; non-basmati comes in all sizes), the sort that is mainly eaten in Asia, and the world. India normally supplies 40 percent of this rice for the world, and claims that poor weather is behind the decision. That could be true in part, but I suspect that there is much more to this story that just another climate/weather freak-out. Could it be that India sees the writing on the wall, of approaching World War III, and is moving to stockpile local food supplies? Whatever the cause, food prices will go up even faster now.
Even I intend to buy a big bag of rice this Friday night shopping. Just checked prices on-line; will run to the supermarket now. Well, not run, but walk less slowly than usual. Maybe just settle for good old Aussie rice, and feel national pride in eating it.